Old Sacramento State Historic Park Photos

Description

Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a worthwhile stop for just about anyone. From the wild west to trains galore to spectacular architecture to the Sacramento River, there really is something to see and experience for everyone.

The park is a noteworthy California Historical Landmark. The entire original 1850s business district of Old Sacramento was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965 by the National Park Service. With over 50 historic buildings, Old Sacramento has more buildings of historic value in its 28 acres than any area of similar size in the West.

The park contains a group of important, early Gold Rush commercial structures. Historic buildings include the 1853 B. F. Hastings Building, once home to the California Supreme Court; the 1849 Eagle Theater; and the 1855 Big Four Building. Old Sacramento was also the western end of the first transcontinental railroad, the Pony Express, and the transcontinental telegraph. No where else can you walk through so much history in such a small area.

In addition to enjoying the history of Old Sacramento you can enjoy the California State Railroad Museum. We love this museum and have spent many hours there. Our favorite time to visit is at Thanksgiving when they have the model trains set up in the museum. Beginning Thanksgiving weekend you can also take a 40 minute train ride from the museum featuring Santa Claus aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad. The trains have treated over a million visitors to memorable rides for over 30 years.

Old Sacramento is located right next to the Sacramento River. We've watching boaters lolling down the river, seen people fishing from its banks, and rode our bikes along side it. The Sacramento River Parkway Trail is an easy 7-mile flat trail that hugs the river. It's great for a stroll or a bike ride.